Damian McCarthy: The Rising Star of Horror Cinema

Damian McCarthy is quickly becoming a prominent name in the horror genre. The Irish filmmaker has already garnered attention with the mind-bending Caveat (2020) and the Irish folklore-infused Oddity (2024). Now, he’s back with Hokum (2026), starring Adam Scott, which is being hailed as his most terrifying and ambitious film yet.

From Short Films to Feature Lengths

Born in West Cork, Ireland, on January 16, 1981, McCarthy’s passion for horror was ignited by a video rental shop his father owned in the 1980s and 1990s [1]. He studied Film & TV Production at St. John’s College in Cork, graduating in 2003 with a distinction in scriptwriting and directing [1]. Before his feature film success, McCarthy honed his skills through numerous short films between 2003 and 2017, supporting himself as an electrician [1]. These shorts were screened at prestigious festivals including Frightfest in London, Screamfest in Los Angeles, and the New York City Horror Film Festival [1].

Early Successes: Caveat and Oddity

McCarthy made his feature directorial debut with Caveat in 2020, receiving largely positive reviews [1]. He followed this with Oddity (2024), a critical success that won an Audience Award at South by Southwest [2] and [3].

Hokum: A New Level of Terror

Hokum, written and directed by McCarthy, centers on Ohm Bauman (Adam Scott), an American author struggling with his work who travels to Ireland to scatter his parents’ ashes. He becomes entangled in the mystery of a missing woman and the local lore surrounding a witch said to haunt the hotel where he’s staying.

The film showcases Scott in a departure from his typically likable roles, portraying a deliberately unpleasant character. McCarthy masterfully builds tension and utilizes jump scares not for cheap thrills, but to create a sense of looming dread [4]. The production design, characterized by decay and familiar iconography from his previous films, contributes to the unnerving atmosphere.

A Shared Universe of Horror?

While not explicitly building a connected universe, Hokum shares thematic and visual elements with Caveat and Oddity, suggesting a “slippery sisterhood of horror and lore” [4]. McCarthy’s films consistently explore the clash between logic and superstition, creating a uniquely unsettling experience for audiences.

What’s Next for Damian McCarthy?

With Hokum, McCarthy has cemented his position as a rising force in the horror genre. The film is set to open in theaters on May 1st. His ability to blend folklore, compelling characters, and masterful pacing promises a bright future for this Irish filmmaker.